Implementing the ventilator-associated events (VAE) prevention protocol at Community Health Network has yielded remarkable results. After two years of adherence to the structured, evidence-based approach, the ICU has reported zero complications, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving critical care.
Dr. Sathish Krishnan, a pulmonary and critical care physician at Community Health Network in Indianapolis, leads this initiative. His methodical approach enhances ICU standards while contributing to advancements in pulmonary hypertension (PH) care, interstitial lung disease (ILD) treatment, and early lung cancer detection.
Advancing Pulmonary Hypertension and Critical Care
Dr. Sathish Krishnan has been pivotal in developing the pulmonary hypertension program, overcoming significant challenges such as securing institutional support, integrating multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring adherence to evolving pulmonary hypertension treatment guidelines. His efforts have helped establish a structured framework for patient care, paving the way for improved access to specialized treatment and streamlined diagnostic protocols at Community Health Network, working towards its accreditation as a Comprehensive Pulmonary Hypertension Care Center — one of only three such centers in Indiana.
Pulmonary hypertension is a rare but life-threatening condition. A 2019 study reported that there are only 257 pulmonary hypertension specialists nationwide, highlighting the critical need for more expertise in this field. His contributions ensure better access to specialized care for pulmonary hypertension patients and improved treatment strategies.
Beyond pulmonary hypertension, Dr. Sathish Krishnan is one of fewer than 15 pulmonologists in Indiana trained in robotic bronchoscopy, an advanced technique for early lung cancer detection. With low-dose CT screenings increasing early lung cancer diagnoses, robotic bronchoscopy is essential in confirming malignancies with minimal invasiveness.
Breakthrough Research and Clinical Trials
Dr. Sathish Krishnan is taking point in groundbreaking research, contributing to advancements that have influenced treatment protocols and informed policy changes in pulmonary medicine. As a co-investigator for the TETON and TETON OLE clinical trials, he is helping evaluate inhaled Treprostinil’s efficacy in treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). These large, multi-center trials, sponsored by United Therapeutics, could fundamentally change treatment strategies for this serious disease, marking a potential breakthrough in IPF care.
His contributions extend to medical literature, with numerous publications focused on rare diseases and atypical presentations, helping clinicians worldwide recognize and manage complex cases. His Google Scholar profile reflects his ongoing impact on pulmonary medicine.
Addressing Systemic Challenges
The challenge of preventing ventilator-associated complications is not new. Hospital-acquired infections (HAI) remain a significant burden on the U.S. healthcare system, with an estimated 687,000 cases reported annually. The mortality rate for ventilator-associated pneumonia alone can reach 30% in high-risk populations.
Dr. Sathish Krishnan has advanced critical care delivery by implementing a proactive approach. As the ICU director and chair of the Pharmacy and Therapeutic Committee, he has developed hospital-wide best practices that reduce preventable complications.
Contributions to Global Access and Medical Education
Dr. Sathish Krishnan is an active member of the Pulmonary Vascular Research Institute (PVRi) “Access to Care” taskforce, where he collaborates with pulmonary hypertension experts worldwide to address disparities in treatment access, both in the U.S. and internationally. His efforts have facilitated global discussions on improving pulmonary hypertension care, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
His commitment to education and knowledge dissemination is evident through his editorial and peer-review roles in multiple medical journals. He serves as an associate editor for the Journal of Clinical Case Reports, a review board member for Therapeutic Advances in Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, and has reviewed abstracts for national conferences such as CHEST, ACP, and SGIM.
Recognized Excellence in Pulmonary Medicine
Dr. Sathish Krishnan’s contributions have earned him national and international recognition. His FCCP designation is awarded to a select group of physicians demonstrating exceptional leadership in pulmonary medicine, and his consecutive recognition as a Top Doctor in Indianapolis places him among the most trusted specialists in his region.
In 2024, he was awarded Fellow of the American College of Chest Physicians (FCCP) and was named a Top Doctor in Indianapolis by Indianapolis Monthly Magazine for three consecutive years (2021–2023).
Pulmonary Care In Five Years
Advancements in pulmonary hypertension treatment, interstitial lung disease management, and ICU care will modify respiratory medicine in 2030. Dr. Sathish Krishnan believes training programs, interdisciplinary collaboration, and research-driven solutions are key to improving patient outcomes nationwide.
Dr. Sathish Krishnan emphasizes that the objective is to meet existing standards and push the boundaries of excellence in patient care. He highlights that every prevented complication, every early cancer diagnosis, and every breakthrough treatment contributes to a larger shift in how critical care is delivered.
Spencer Hulse is the Editorial Director at Grit Daily. He is responsible for overseeing other editors and writers, day-to-day operations, and covering breaking news.